At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive and maintain grounds while ensuring parks and open spaces look their best.
- Company: Join Thurrock Council's Clean & Green team for a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, flexible working, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with great career development potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Must have a Category B driving licence and basic digital skills.
The predicted salary is between 25785 - 31515 £ per year.
We are seeking a NLGV Driver Operative to join the Grounds Maintenance Team. This post forms part of the new locality-based Clean & Green operational structure, delivering efficient, sustainable, and high-quality grounds maintenance services across the borough of Thurrock.
About the Role
As a NLGV Driver Operative, you will be responsible for:
- Carrying out a range of horticultural and grounds maintenance work ensuring that a high standard of grounds maintenance is achieved in parks, open spaces, housing areas, cemeteries and other council owned spaces supporting biodiversity, waste reduction, and sustainable grounds management.
- Working as part of an integrated Area Team delivering grounds maintenance across a defined locality.
- Providing grounds maintenance duties through daily work scheduling in line with required standards and ensuring compliance with all aspects of health and safety. Vehicles include, but are not limited to, vehicles 3.5t GVW and under including ride‑on mowers.
- Working flexibly and as part of a team to provide excellent grounds maintenance services to the community.
- Collaborative working with Street Cleansing, Highways Maintenance, and Waste Collections teams to reflect the new integrated Clean & Green Structure.
- Ensuring that accurate records of work undertaken are maintained using digital systems and data‑driven monitoring, e.g., Bartec, in‑cab systems, or Power BI for performance management and reporting.
What We're Looking For
- Willing to undertake outside working of a physical nature in all weather conditions.
- Ability to work alone when required, with minimal supervision.
- Ability to communicate clearly, simply and effectively to a range of audiences.
- Good general education, including a good standard of numeracy and literacy.
- Basic digital literacy - ability to use handheld or in‑cab systems for task recording.
Essential Qualifications
- Category B driving licence.
- Ability to drive and operate a range of non‑LGV vehicles including vehicles under 3,500kg GVW and ride‑on mowers.
- Awareness of manual handling and safe lifting techniques.
- Knowledge of basic maintenance and care of plant, equipment and vehicles.
- DBS Check: Not Required.
Benefits of Working with Us
At Thurrock Council, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable).
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
- Staff discounts and local offers.
- A supportive and inclusive working environment.
Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 19th November 2026
Closing Date (Internal & External): 29th November 2026
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Mark Norrington - Clean & Green Area Manager.
NLGV Driver Operative - Grounds Maintenance employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. As an Education Lead Adviser based in Grays, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children while collaborating with dedicated professionals in a multi-agency environment. With a strong commitment to employee growth and community engagement, Thurrock Council provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about safeguarding and educational attainment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NLGV Driver Operative - Grounds Maintenance
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace NLGV Driver Operative - Grounds Maintenance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Thurrock Council's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Thurrock Council. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Thurrock Council.
